Harvesting energy from light using bio-inspired artificial cells

Scientists connected two different artificial cells together to generate ATP, which provides energy to power cellular processes. One type of artificial cell generates protons when exposed to light. Another type of artificial cell has an enzyme that can utilize these protons to make ATP. The cells contain nanorods that are made from silver and gold, which mimic biological lipid cell walls in nature. The nanorods’ response to light quickens the time needed for certain proteins to produce protons. Researchers have also attempted to surround the nanorods with a colloidal capsule that has many advantages including pores for ions to pass through and may also be able to influence other processes within the artificial cells. Bacteriorhodopsin was chosen to be attached to the capsule to allow for proton transport across the membrane under illumination. The bacteriorhodopsin uses light energy to pump protons across the membrane. The difference in proton concentrations across the membranes can be used to create chemical energy. This artificial cell may be used in the future to develop alternative solar-to-chemical energy systems.

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